Serengeti National Park
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2016 —
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A landmark volume, 'Serengeti IV: Sustaining Biodiversity in a Coupled Human-Natural System,' reveals that traditional conservation strategies often conflict with sustainable livelihoods, necessitating a rethinking of protected area management. The study synthesizes 27 multiyear investigations across the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem, highlighting the intricate interplay between ecological processes—such as wildebeest migrations and fire regimes—and socioeconomic dynamics in surrounding human-occupied landscapes. Key findings include the critical role of protected areas like Serengeti National Park as baselines for evaluating system resilience, the rarity of win-win solutions for conservation and agriculture, and the profound impact of wildebeest on ecosystem structure, particularly following rinderpest eradication. The research employs a combination of long-term ecological data, modeling (e.g., structural equation modeling), and conceptual analysis to address fundamental questions about biodiversity dynamics, habitat use, and climate change impacts.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2016 —
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Toxoplasma gondii infection is unlikely to be a major contributor to reproductive failure in New Zealand sea lions (Phocarctos hookeri), according to a study analyzing seroprevalence across mainland and sub-Antarctic populations. The research tested archived sera from 55 sea lions using ELISA, latex agglutination tests (LAT), and Western blot validation, revealing five positive cases—all from mainland locations (Otago Peninsula and Stewart Island). Notably, two adult females exhibited high antibody titres over consecutive years, while no sub-Antarctic Enderby Island sea lions tested positive. While T. gondii does not appear to significantly impact reproduction in these threatened populations, the study underscores the need for ongoing surveillance to assess potential subclinical effects. The findings also suggest that commercially available tests, with species-specific threshold adjustments, could serve as a reliable and cost-effective tool for monitoring exposure in New Zealand sea lions.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
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2016 —
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A Grooved Ware settlement at Barnhouse, Orkney, likely began as a planned foundation in the late 32nd century cal BC and was abandoned by the early 29th century cal BC, with Structure 8 being the last element to be left. Bayesian chronological modeling based on radiocarbon dating of 62 samples revealed varied house durations and replacements, challenging previous understandings of the site's development. The pottery from Barnhouse, among the earliest dated Grooved Ware, shows remarkable consistency in design and manufacture, with notable changes including the introduction of large coarse ware vessels and applied dimpled circular pellets around 3025–2975 cal BC. This study provides significant insights into the emergence of Grooved Ware and its role in social strategies during the Late Neolithic period.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
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2016 —
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A cosmopolitan diet emerged in Pompeii and Herculaneum during the last centuries BC, replacing earlier local food traditions. This insight comes from archaeobotanical analysis of sewer deposits beneath Cardo V at Herculaneum, revealing diverse plant remains that reflect a varied and internationally influenced diet among residents of small apartments above. Comparative evidence from Pompeii supports this trend, illustrating how regional food economies evolved over time. The study highlights the significance of urban sewers as repositories for understanding dietary shifts in ancient societies.
Mount Taishan
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2016 —
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Shandong Province, China, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS): the temple and cemetery of Confucius and the Kong family mansion in Qufu, and Mount Taishan. The study evaluates these sites against UNESCO's ten criteria for WHS designation, finding that Mount Taishan meets seven criteria, including its role as a masterpiece of human creativity, its significance in landscape design, and its representation of traditional human settlement. Both sites are also linked to living cultural traditions with universal significance. While Shandong Province promotes tourism through a Mandarin-language website, the study highlights the need for strategic efforts to maximize the benefits of these WHS for the region. The research focuses on the criteria met by each site and suggests targeted strategies to enhance their impact on local tourism.
Tower of London
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2016 —
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British colonial expansion, diplomatic activities, and military successes significantly reshaped the Ordnance Office collections at the Tower of London during the early 19th century. This period saw a shift toward greater public access and historical accuracy in the museum's displays, extending beyond the well-documented New Horse Armoury to include broader aspects of the collection. The study highlights how these changes reflected national trends while being driven by overseas acquisitions and territorial growth.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2016 —
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Agricultural practices significantly alter the taxonomic and functional diversity of soil microbes in the Cerrado biome, one of Brazil's most critical grain-producing regions. A study using shotgun metagenomics revealed that conventional tillage (CT) and no-till (NT) systems, introduced 23 years ago for soybean/maize cultivation, reduced macroporosity and microbial biomass while increasing Proteobacteria dominance—particularly Rhizobiales and Bradyrhizobium—likely due to soybean inoculation. In contrast, native Cerrado soils showed higher diversity of Rhizobium, Azospirillum, and other taxa, alongside greater functional diversity. CT systems, despite harboring more taxonomic sequences, exhibited reduced functional profiles, suggesting a potential trade-off in microbial efficiency. The findings underscore the fragility of the Cerrado's soil microbial community beneath its resilient vegetation, highlighting the need for sustainable agricultural practices to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
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2016 —
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Visitors to Shark Bay World Heritage Area can achieve high satisfaction with natural attractions and educational facilities, even when visitor infrastructure is minimal. A study using importance-performance analysis (IPA) found that visitors to the stromatolite viewing-boardwalk in Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve rated their experience positively despite limited facilities, highlighting the potential for short-stop tourism sites to thrive without extensive development. Visitors expressed a strong desire for updated interpretive signs or an educational mobile app, suggesting targeted improvements could enhance engagement. The IPA approach proved effective in identifying management priorities before implementing changes, offering a practical tool for sustainable tourism planning.
Taï National Park
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2016 —
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Chimpanzee mothers and infants employ distinct signals to initiate joint travel, with infants shifting from vocal to gestural communication as they develop. A study comparing two wild chimpanzee communities revealed low concordance in maternal gestural production both within and between groups, suggesting that gestures arise from social negotiation rather than genetic or ritualized learning. Researchers recorded 442 actions, 599 intentional gestures, and 80 vocalizations over 156 days, proposing a new theory of gestural acquisition where signals are shaped through shared understanding in real-time interactions.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
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2016 —
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Research on Wrangel Island's vegetation reveals the identification of 53 sigma-syntaxa, including 13 sigma-associations and 40 sigma-types, using a symphytosociological approach. This method, adapted from European phytosociologists, classifies territorial units of vegetation based on diagnostic groups and constant syntaxa. The study employs landscape ecological methods and profiles to identify phytocoenochoras, which are then processed into tabular data to determine sigma-syntaxa. Key findings include the application of a threshold for identifying sigma-associations and the combination of typological categories into higher hierarchical ranks like sigma-unions. The research also introduces an algorithm for recording sigma-syntaxa, covering composition, structure, environment, and location, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding vegetation diversity on Wrangel Island.
Mount Taishan
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2016 —
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A significant increase in summertime ozone (O₃) levels has been observed at Mount Tai, the highest mountain over the North China Plain, with rates of 1.7 ppbv per year in June and 2.1 ppbv per year for July–August averages from 2003 to 2015. This finding, supported by a global chemistry-climate model (GFDL-AM3), attributes the rise primarily to increased emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), despite a decline in nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) since 2011. The study highlights that controlling NOₓ alone is insufficient for reducing regional O₃ levels in North China, emphasizing the need for concurrent VOC emission controls. Researchers analyzed long-term surface O₃ measurements and satellite data to quantify decadal changes and identify key precursors driving ozone production.
Stevns Klint
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2016 —
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A discovery of micrometer-sized silver particles, embedded within the calcite matrix of the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary sediment at Stevns Klint, Denmark, suggests a link to the Chicxulub asteroid impact event. These pure silver microparticles (>99% weight) exhibit irregular, rounded, and dendritic shapes with rugged surfaces, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The findings imply these particles were dispersed globally during or immediately after the impact, offering new insights into the geochemical consequences of large-scale extraterrestrial events.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
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2016 —
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A study of an 18th-century urban core in Torre Annunziata, Italy, reveals how water management systems were integrated into building designs to sustainably utilize rainwater. The research uncovers sedimented knowledge within these structures, offering a foundation for modern conservation and revitalization efforts. By analyzing historical water infrastructure, the study provides insights into pre-industrial urban planning, contrasting it with contemporary wasteful practices. This work highlights the potential for recovering and leveraging traditional water systems to improve sustainability in heritage sites.
Kathmandu Valley
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2016 —
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The 2015 M7.6 Gorkha earthquake in Nepal caused significant damage and loss of life, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley, due to site amplification effects that exceeded design levels set by Nepalese building codes. A study using passive microtremor recordings identified clear site amplification in the Siddhitol Region, highlighting the need for site-specific hazard analysis and revisions to building codes to mitigate future risks. The research approach involved analyzing shear wave velocity profiles from severely damaged areas and the main seismic station in Kathmandu, converting these into spectral accelerations using earthquake input motion data.
Kathmandu Valley
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2016 —
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Nonlinear seismic site response analysis more accurately predicts structural damage patterns in Kathmandu Valley compared to equivalent-linear analysis, as demonstrated by the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake. The study found that nonlinear models better capture soil amplification and peak ground acceleration (PGA) variations, with PGA ranging from 0.17 to 0.46 g—closely matching observed damage scenarios. While equivalent-linear analysis underestimated amplification (2.3–3.8), nonlinear analysis revealed higher values (8.9–18.2), aligning with severe damage in three sites and minimal damage in two others. The research also exposed inaccuracies in the USGS PGA map for southern Kathmandu, contrasting with northern regions. Soil fundamental periods of 0.4–0.5 seconds were consistent across both methods, providing critical data for seismic demand analysis.
Gunung Mulu National Park
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2016 —
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A survey of small mammals in Gunung Mulu National Park, part of the UNESCO-listed Mulu Caves National Park, revealed nine new locality records for the northeastern region of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Among these, eight bat species (Dyacopterus spadiceus, Megaerops wetmorei, Nycteris tragata, Hipposideros cineraceus, Hesperoptenus blanfordi, Kerivoula pellucida, Murina suilla, and Myotis muricola) and one squirrel (Sundasciurus brookei) were documented. Notably, Megaerops wetmorei was recorded for the first time in Sarawak. The study, conducted using ground-level and canopy mist-nets, harp traps, and cage traps, found Gunung Mulu National Park to have the highest small mammal diversity (29 species), followed by Niah National Park (19 species) and Lambir Hills National Park (17 species). This research contributes to understanding biodiversity in this ecologically significant region.
Fatehpur Sikri
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2016 —
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A geomechanical and kinematic analysis of sandstone slopes at Rasulpur, Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh, reveals that the slopes fall within good stability classes (2a and 2b) according to the SMR Geomechanics classification. However, the study identifies a potential risk of toppling failures due to structurally controlled joint sets, which could pose hazards during excavation. To mitigate these risks, the researchers recommend implementing safety measures such as rock bolting and the installation of nets during excavation. This analysis combines field investigations with laboratory tests to assess slope stability, providing actionable insights for safer mining practices in the region.
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
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2016 —
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Children in Mexico's Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve actively engage in remunerable tourism labour during the season, contributing to their livelihoods and development while facing risks of physical harm and health issues. This study, based on children's own accounts, reveals that such participation also reinforces traditional gender roles. Conducted through qualitative methods centered on child informants, the research highlights the need for comprehensive understanding of tourism's social dimensions, offering practical and methodological insights to address these complexities.
Kilimanjaro National Park
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2016 —
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Protected areas (PAs) often exacerbate inequalities, particularly for women and the poor, by restricting access to essential resources without providing adequate compensation. A study on Kilimanjaro National Park and Enduimet Wildlife Management Area in Tanzania reveals that while both men and women face challenges due to PA restrictions, women suffer disproportionately due to gendered division of labor and limited livelihood alternatives. Despite modest benefits from PAs, illegal resource collection persists as a survival strategy for many. The research combines qualitative methods—including interviews and focus groups—to highlight how conservation efforts may inadvertently worsen the well-being of adjacent communities, particularly female-headed households and the economically disadvantaged.
Medieval Town of Toruń
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2016 —
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Research on the socio-topography of Toruń’s suburbs reveals significant transformations from the Middle Ages to the 18th century, driven by urban development and historical conflicts. The study highlights that medieval settlement patterns were disrupted by fortifications and wars, particularly the Great Northern War (1703–1710), leading to shifts in population density and ethnic composition. While St Lawrence’s and St George’s quarters dominated in the Middle Ages, Rybaki and Winnica became key areas along the Vistula River by the 18th century. A focus on Żabieniec, a part of Rybaki, shows its continuous habitation across centuries, with rent records providing insight into ownership, economic relations, and professional/ethnic structures. The analysis also documents environmental impacts, such as flood damage from the Vistula River, and historical events like a gunpowder explosion. This work underscores the potential for deeper research on Toruń’s suburbs using underutilized source materials.
Pirin National Park
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2016 —
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A comprehensive analysis of soil contamination in Bulgaria's forest and industrial regions reveals significant accumulation of heavy metals, particularly in Pirin National Park, Central Balkan National Park, Bulgarka Natural Park, and Strandzha Natural Park. The study, spanning 1988 to 2015, highlights severe soil acidification and eutrophication, with notable levels of heavy metal contamination detected in pasture grasses and medicinal plants. Industrial areas also show elevated heavy metal concentrations in tree leaves, assessed using ICP Forests criteria. This research underscores the environmental impact of industrial activities on pristine ecosystems, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pirin National Park.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2016 —
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Agroforests in Paraty, Brazil, demonstrate remarkable resilience and ecological similarity to native secondary forests. A study comparing two agroforestry systems (AFS-1 and AFS-2), a secondary forest, and a cassava monoculture revealed that AFS-2 exhibited higher abundance of microphagous, saprophagous, and total soil fauna individuals during winter, while AFS-1 showed increased diversity in Formicidae and phytophagous groups from winter to summer. Soil chemical (pH, Al, Ca, Mg, P, K, carbon, organic matter) and microbiological attributes (soil microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration, metabolic quotient) were analyzed alongside soil fauna communities. The findings suggest that these agroforests are undergoing regeneration, mirroring the ecological efficiency of native forests. This research underscores the potential of agroforestry systems to support biodiversity while maintaining soil health.
Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
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2016 —
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A study of soil macrofauna in the Naurzum State Nature Reserve, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Saryarka Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan,' reveals that the abundance and biomass of soil-dwelling invertebrates are significantly lower than in northern and western steppe regions. This finding highlights the unique ecological challenges faced by the dry, continental climate of the Turgai Plateau, where remnants of Virgin Stipa lessingiana steppes persist despite historical land-use changes during the Soviet Virgin Land campaign. The research provides a detailed analysis of the faunistic composition and community structure of these invertebrates, underscoring their critical role in the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems.
Yakushima
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2016 —
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Contrary to expectations, soil nutrient availability and forest nutrient-use efficiencies on Yakushima Island, Japan, exhibit distinct patterns along an altitudinal gradient. Research reveals that total phosphorus (P) and inorganic nitrogen (N), as well as labile P fractions, decrease with increasing altitude, challenging initial hypotheses. This trend suggests that progressive soil acidity and slower decomposition in cooler, wetter upslope environments have dissolved volcanic ash-derived P and accelerated its leaching. Consequently, forest ecosystems on Yakushima face increasing phosphorus and nitrogen shortages at higher altitudes. The study analyzed soil nutrient fractions and inorganic N, along with P- and N-use efficiencies across seven forests spanning 170–1550 meters above sea level, providing critical insights into the nutrient dynamics of these unique altitudinally zoned ecosystems.
High Coast / Kvarken Archipelago
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2016 —
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Transnational learning (TNL) can mitigate democratic participation gaps in early stages of UNESCO World Heritage (WH) nomination processes, offering a model for resolving landscape-related conflicts. This study examines the WH sites Laponia and High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago, revealing how TNL facilitates cross-border cooperation among stakeholders despite cultural and legal constraints. The research employs comparative methods and governance theories to analyze challenges in local democratic participation during national and transnational decision-making. It highlights the Nordic tradition of TNL as a tool for incorporating diverse stakeholders into WH governance, demonstrating its potential to bridge gaps between local communities and international conservation efforts.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2016 —
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A significant recovery of the critically endangered Amami Thrush (<em>Zoothera dauma major</em>), endemic to Amami-Oshima Island, Japan, has been documented through song-count surveys and population estimates. The study, conducted from 2007 to 2013 with public participation, revealed a marked increase in the number of singing males, rising from an estimated 945–1,858 up to 2012 to 2,512 in 2013. This suggests a doubling of the breeding population, likely driven by forest regeneration and eradication efforts against invasive small Indian mongooses (<em>Herpestes auropunctatus</em>). The thrush was found to be more abundant in mature forests with less open habitat, indicating that forest maturity is crucial for its survival. Continued monitoring, including public involvement, is recommended to ensure the species' long-term conservation.
South China Karst
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2016 —
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South China Karst 1999, Preliminary Research in Yunnan presents key findings on the geological characteristics of karst landscapes in Yunnan Province, China. The study, conducted by researchers from the Karst Research Institute ZRC SAZU and their Chinese counterparts, focuses on the unique formations of 'shilin' (stone forests) and tower karst structures around Babao and Puzhehei regions. These formations exhibit distinct geological features that contribute to the understanding of karst development in subtropical environments. The research employed field observations and analyses to document these landscapes, which are less explored in tourist literature. This work builds on prior studies published in 'South China Karst' (1998) and provides preliminary insights into the complex processes shaping these iconic karst formations.
City of Cuzco
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2016 —
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The Inka Empire's control over vast, distant frontier regions, particularly the Southeast frontier, was marked by complex socioeconomic transformations that reshaped indigenous populations like the Yampara and Guaraní. This study reveals how the encounter between the Inka—one of the largest pre-Columbian empires—and these fierce tribes led to significant political and economic shifts. By integrating cross-regional analysis and diverse lines of evidence, researchers uncover the mechanics of Inka imperial expansion and its profound impacts on local societies. The findings highlight the adaptability and resilience of frontier populations in response to Inka governance, offering new insights into the empire's reach and influence.
Anticosti
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2016 —
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A seismic reflection study on eastern Anticosti Island, Quebec, has identified the southern extension of the Mesoproterozoic Wakeham Group and Robe-Noire mafic sills, previously exposed only along the north shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The research used hydrocarbon-targeted seismic data to image subparallel reflections below the Paleozoic St. Lawrence Platform, revealing a reflective unit characterized by broad open folds, subparallel markers, and east-northeast-dipping faults. This discovery extends geological understanding of the eastern Grenville Province's basement structure, providing new insights into the region's tectonic history.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
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2016 —
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Effective protection within the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP) has led to high densities of the reef gastropod <em>Tectus niloticus</em> or 'trochus', with larger individuals being abundant across three habitat types. However, trochus density declines with distance from the Ranger Station, indicating that proximity to protection is critical for population health. The study also found a decline in abundance between 2006 and 2008 at permanent monitoring sites, followed by slight recovery trends toward 2010, suggesting resilience when fishing pressure is relieved. In contrast, unguarded and continuously exploited Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) on mainland Palawan harbored the least numbers of trochus, but the presence of recruits in these areas hints at potential population recovery if fishing restrictions are strictly enforced. This research underscores the importance of well-managed MPAs in restoring biodiversity, benefiting both ecosystems and fisheries.
Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua
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2016 —
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A significant mortality event among great apes in the Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua, Republic of Congo, likely due to a disease outbreak, was linked to ecological and human impact factors. Researchers analyzed 17,383 ape nests (2007-2011) using spatial modeling to identify the outbreak's origin in western Odzala-Kokoua, north of previous Ebola epizootics. Roads were found to attenuate disease spread, suggesting their potential role in mitigating transmission. The study highlights critical variables for great ape disease ecology, offering insights for wildlife management and zoonotic risk reduction.
Brasilia
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2016 —
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A massive development initiative, such as the creation of Brasília and its associated highway network, had only limited population impacts and zero per capita income effects on Brazil's spatial structure outside of Brasília itself. Using a unique 'spatial-difference-in-differences' approach, the study examined data spanning 70 years (1939–2008) to test whether Brasília's inauguration in 1960 changed the country's urban population distribution and per capita GDP. The research controlled for various macroeconomic conditions, city-specific factors, convergence forces, industrial structure changes, and agglomeration impacts from São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. While the western coastal and interior regions saw a statistically significant increase in their share of Brazil's urban population (from 4.8% in 1959 to 9.0% in 2008), no evidence of per capita income effects related to proximity to Brasília was found, indicating that even large-scale development projects may have limited broader economic impacts.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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2016 —
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Black rhinos in the Ngorongoro Crater exhibit distinct spatial and temporal distribution patterns, shifting between wet and dry seasons. During the dry season (August-September 2015), they concentrated on shrub-dominated slopes and riverine areas, while wet season sightings (May-June 2015) were more frequent on the crater floor, where forage resources were abundant. The study, conducted through monthly road drives during both seasons, mapped rhino presence alongside vegetation analysis to assess habitat preferences. Human activities, such as tourism infrastructure and livestock grazing near community interfaces, were identified as potential disruptions to natural distribution patterns. Establishing buffer zones could help preserve these critical habitats for black rhinos, one of Tanzania's rarest native species.
Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves
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2016 —
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A study of the coastal region of Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, reveals distinct seasonal patterns in thermohaline properties. During the rainy season, surface water temperatures rise while salinity decreases, with spatial homogeneity observed across the archipelago. Nutrient concentrations also show seasonal uniformity, suggesting a stable tropical marine mass influences the region's waters. Researchers conducted four campaigns between 2013 and 2014, collecting data at five stations during both wet and dry seasons to analyze these patterns. This findings contribute to understanding the chemical and biological processes active in this UNESCO-listed area.
Białowieża Forest
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2016 —
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Stone martens (Martes foina) exhibit significant dietary plasticity, adapting their feeding habits to seasonal, annual, and spatial variations in food availability within the villages of Białowieża Forest. The study found that fruits and birds were the primary food sources, accounting for 41.5% and 32.9% of consumed biomass respectively. However, dietary composition varied notably across seasons, with birds dominating in spring while fruits were more prevalent from summer to winter. Small mammals played a crucial role in smaller villages, particularly those near forest edges, where bank voles (Myodes glareolus) were the dominant prey. Conversely, larger villages saw higher consumption of rats (Rattus sp.) and poultry during winter. This adaptability suggests that stone martens specialize in fruits but supplement their diet with other resources when availability is low.
M'Zab Valley
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2016 —
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Groundwater in the UNESCO-listed M'Zab Valley, Algeria, exhibits significant spatio-temporal variations in physico-chemical parameters due to domestic, agricultural, and industrial pollution. The study, conducted by Amer et al. (2016), found that total suspended solids reached up to 71.72 mg/L, with high concentrations of sulphates (2597 mg/L), chlorides (1633 mg/L), and sodium (1970 mg/L). Salinity showed the most pronounced variations across sampling points, indicating widespread pollution infiltration. The research involved monthly water sampling from wells distributed along the river's flow, measuring parameters like temperature, salinity, and suspended particles. These findings underscore the urgent need for preventive measures to preserve groundwater quality in this ecologically significant region.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
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2016 —
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A study in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park revealed that the bee community in coastal dune vegetation exhibits seasonal activity patterns, with increased abundance during the rainy season. Researchers collected 1211 individuals from 59 species using entomological nets and Moerike traps over a one-year period (August 2009 to July 2010). The findings align with known patterns in Maranhão and other northeastern Brazilian coastal areas, highlighting the dominance of species such as <em>Trigona</em> sp. gr. <em>fulviventris</em>, <em>Apis mellifera</em>, and <em>Centris</em> spp. This research contributes to understanding bee diversity and ecological dynamics in unique restinga ecosystems, which are critical for biodiversity conservation.
Hortobágy National Park - the Puszta
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2016 —
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Habitat diversity positively influences species richness (SR) across multiple taxa, but each taxon responds to different aspects of habitat diversity. In Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, a study found that the wet-dry gradient (compositional habitat diversity at the between-patch scale) was primarily linked to SR in orthopterans, ground-dwelling arthropods, and all animals combined. Within patches, plant association richness (compositional habitat diversity) affected vegetation-dwelling arthropods, while vegetation height (structural habitat diversity) influenced ground-dwelling arthropods and birds. Patch area and management practices also played significant roles in SR for specific taxa. Despite these positive relationships, no consistent pattern emerged when pooling data across all taxa, highlighting the complexity of detecting general habitat diversity-SR relationships. The findings underscore the need for targeted management strategies to conserve biodiversity in complex landscapes.
Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea
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2016 —
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A comprehensive survey of spider diversity in Pedra Branca State Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, reveals a rich and likely underestimated biodiversity. The study recorded 14,626 spider specimens, representing 49 families and 373 species or morphospecies, including at least 73 undescribed taxa. Species accumulation curves suggest the park may harbor up to 468 species, significantly surpassing previous estimates from nearby areas like Tijuca National Park (308 species) and Marapendi Municipal Park (159 species). This research expands the known distribution range of 45 spider species while highlighting the Atlantic Forest's ecological significance as part of Rio de Janeiro's UNESCO World Heritage Site. The findings underscore the need for further exploration to fully capture this region's arachnid diversity.
Darien National Park
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2016 —
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A study tracking the spread of the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) across lowland habitats in Panamá from 2009 to 2014 reveals that this pathogen, already enzootic in highland regions, has expanded its range into remote lowland areas, including Darién National Park. The research focused on the Túngara frog (Physalaemus pustulosus), a common and abundant species in these regions, which may serve as asymptomatic reservoirs or dispersal agents for Bd. While highland populations were infected at the study's onset, central Panamá recorded its first positive samples in 2010, with Bd detected in eastern sites by 2014. This expansion underscores the importance of studying lowland species to understand their role in Bd dynamics and potential impacts on more susceptible highland amphibians.
Moravian Church Settlements
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2016 —
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A comparative study of quartz grain surfaces at archaeological sites in southern and southeastern Moravia reveals that sediment development at the Mikulčice site likely occurred in a similar environment, characterized by both aeolian (wind-blown) transport and low-energy fluvial processes. The research analyzed samples from Mikulčice—home to significant Slavic churches and palaces—and other genetically distinct sites using exoscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and multivariate analysis (NMDS). A comparative sample from the Arabian Peninsula's Rub-al Khali desert provided additional context. Findings suggest that the site's sandy sediments, up to 30 meters thick, were influenced by both wind and river processes, offering insights into the sedimentary history of this UNESCO-listed Moravian Church Settlements region.
Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church
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2016 —
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St Faith’s Chapel at Westminster Abbey, built by King Henry III in the 13th century, stands out as a locus of high status due to its unique design, decoration, and materials. The chapel's use of Purbeck marble for wall shafts and corbels, along with its painted decorations and 13th-century floor tiles, supports claims that it served as the sacristy and vestry of the Benedictine church. This study examines the chapel’s fittings, sculpture, and painted decoration to argue for its significance in the abbey's architectural and liturgical context.
Ironbridge Gorge
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2016 —
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A hybrid stabilization scheme effectively addressed slope instability at Jackfield, Ironbridge Gorge, UK, by leveraging the Viggiani method to mobilize passive resistance from stable ground and transmit it into the slide mass. The design carefully balanced geotechnical and structural factors of safety using numerical examples, avoiding compounding risks. Key innovations included precise pile strength determination and optimized spacing, ensuring both stability and cost-efficiency. This approach offers a robust model for mitigating landslide risks in young geological formations prone to instability.
Himeji-jo
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2016 —
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Marathon organizers leveraging World Heritage sites as a unique selling point must prioritize operational quality and community engagement to enhance the value proposition for runners. A study analyzing feedback from 530 participants in the Himeji Castle Marathon and Mt. Fuji Marathon revealed that while heritage status is pivotal, operational efficiency and social interactions significantly influence the co-creation of value during such events. This insight underscores the need for organizers to integrate local businesses and residents more actively to foster a richer experience, balancing heritage appeal with practical and social dimensions.
Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow
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2016 —
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Stalin's legacy experienced rapid obliteration within the Soviet Union following his death, with his embalmed body removed from public display in Lenin Mausoleum and buried modestly in the Kremlin cemetery. This shift marked a stark contrast to his once-dominant presence, reflecting an inconclusive conclusion to his political afterlife. The study examines this transformation through historical analysis, highlighting the hasty dismantling of personal elements associated with Stalin, such as state-sanctioned mourning rituals and public tributes, which were abruptly abandoned in favor of a collective effort to distance from his regime.
Medieval Town of Toruń
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2016 —
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Archaeological research on the socio-topography of Toruń, Poland, has revealed over 500 archaeological units—including sites and trenches—shedding light on the town's spatial development from its incorporation in the Middle Ages to the end of the 18th century. By analyzing 284 archive files and more than 15,800 photographs, researchers reconstructed the transformation of Toruń’s socio-topographic structure, organization, and interactions across medieval and early post-medieval periods. The study employed interdisciplinary methods, integrating archaeology, history, anthropology, archaeozoology, archaeobotany, and paleopedology to visualize chronologies on cartograms and assess environmental influences on urban development. While the research highlights the state of current knowledge, it also identifies gaps and future directions for understanding Toruń’s socio-topographic evolution.
City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto
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2016 —
WHE0135780399
A theoretical and practical exploration of Marco Frascari's architectural vision for nurturing happiness through bathroom design, exemplified by the Stanza Rossa in Vicenza, Italy. The study reveals a unique integration of memory, imagination, and disciplinary knowledge to propose buildings with therapeutic functions, fostering meaningful human-architectural relationships. Unlike traditional apocalyptic or high-tech utopian futures, Frascari's designs envision spaces that prioritize corporeality and well-being, with bathrooms and kitchens playing central roles in his Dream Tower concept.
Lower Valley of the Awash
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2016 —
WHE3F7DC0F404
The rise and fall of the sultanate of Awsa, a semi-independent Muslim chiefdom in northeastern Ethiopia between 1944 and 1975, was driven by frontier regime strategies that exploited foreign investment in commercial agriculture. This study reveals how Ali Mirah leveraged these resources to consolidate power at the fringes of Ethiopia's Christian empire, shaping statecraft in the Lower Awash Valley. By analyzing grey literature and primary sources, the research demonstrates the interplay between local governance and external economic influences during this period.
City of Safranbolu
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2016 —
WHEB0BD19A62E
Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 and a well-preserved Ottoman city, offers valuable insights into the effectiveness of state-supported financial tools for conserving traditional architectural heritage. This study reveals that grant-aided subsidies and loan systems, administered by the central government, have significantly influenced the protection, conservation, and restoration efforts in Safranbolu. By evaluating these policies, researchers found that while they provide essential funding mechanisms, their impact varies depending on factors such as accessibility, implementation efficiency, and alignment with local needs. The study highlights the importance of tailored financial strategies to ensure sustainable heritage conservation, offering a model for other World Heritage Sites facing similar challenges.
Everglades National Park
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2016 —
WHE5F52C76FBB
A decade-long analysis (2000–2009) of water levels in the Biscayne aquifer, adjacent conservation areas, and Everglades National Park reveals critical hydrological patterns near Miami-Dade County’s canal junctions. The study identifies that October water levels—specifically the 50th percentile—exhibit distinct spatial gradients and inferred flow directions, providing insights into groundwater dynamics in this ecologically vital region. Researchers employed statistical modeling and geospatial mapping to quantify variability, offering a data-driven framework for understanding aquifer behavior amid urban and conservation land uses. These findings underscore the importance of precise water management to sustain both ecological integrity and human infrastructure.
